While Gwendoline Yeo has delivered several memorable Clone Wars performances in the last three seasons, none have been so compelling as her role as Kalifa, the "lost" Jedi youngling who's fought to survive for years as hunters' quarry on a Trandoshan moon in "Padawan Lost."
With past roles on shows such as Desperate Housewives, General Hospital, and 24, Yeo's role as Kalifa required her to strike a delicate balance between the anti-aggressive ideals of a Jedi and the instinctive need to protect and survive. This conflict is tested by the arrival of Ahsoka, whose optimism and adherance to the Jedi code force Kalifa to choose between survival and freedom.
We asked Yeo a few questions about her role as Kalifa, and where she hopes the Star Wars galaxy will be taking her next:
In previous roles for The Clone Wars, you've played a villain (Cato Parasitti), a gentle hero (Peppi Bow), and a protective caregiver (Nala Se). Where do you think Kalifa fits into this range of personalities?
Hmm, I think this is the first human-like person I've played -- so, less about personality, perhaps more about species! I will say this -- that every role I've played has been an aspect of me. I think Peppi Bow captured my wide eyed innocence at times about things, and a bit of a wacky energy. Cato is like my inner monologue sometimes when I'm so mad at someone. And Nala Se is that stoic, elegant creature that comes out when I'm being pensive about stuff. And ahhh, Kalifa. She captures my heart. When I go through tough times, I tend to go into "be strong" mode. It's all business and it's time to survive. But she also has a huge heart and is fiercely loyal to her friends. I'm so honored to play a Jedi. During the voice sessions I'm always beaming from ear to ear. Dave Filoni sets such an awesome tone, does such specific directing -- it's like a dream come true to go to work and do this.
Kalifa presents us with a character in conflict with her beliefs, specifically in the Jedi code. How did you portray that middle ground, essentially between the light side and the dark?
I just connected to real life. We are complex as human beings. And I can see how she shut down her heart and her faith to survive and keep going. Because to face the pain of being trapped somewhere, of not having freedom...can almost be too much to bear. But underneath it, we always see a spark in her. She's like a match, just waiting to be re-ignited...
The scene where Kalifa is killed is both shocking and heartbreaking -- what was your reaction when you first read that scene?
Oh man. Dave actually called me at home and said, "I'm writing this character with you in mind...you really get to use your acting skills...and it's high drama...she dies in the end...." Wow, they outdid themselves with the storyline. I knew she would die in the end because Dave told me, but I didn't know how. And wow, in that final scene... I actually cried during the take. We don't get to see the actual pages till we get in studio -- and I read the pages and teared up. This episode is so awesome.
Are you bummed your character never got to meet Chewbacca?
Dude! I just want my characters to make it out of the episode alive! And yeah, with all the different series and the time jumps, I have to admit, I do get bummed I don't get to act with Chewbacca and the other classics.
You've played a Clone Wars bounty hunter, rancher, nurse, and Jedi youngling -- what would you like your next role in the Star Wars galaxy to be?
Ok, this is the part where I cozy up to the director, producers and George himself -- "there are no small parts, just small actors. Any 'ol role will do. Stormtrooper #3? sure!" Ok ok, I admit it, I'd love to be like Yoda's lady friend and do that Yoda-speak. If I got to do Yoda-esque speak for reals I might just faint right there in the studio!
Visit Gwendoline Yeo's official site here.
